Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri has joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and declared his intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
Karauri was unveiled at the party’s Nairobi headquarters on Monday, November 9, by UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.
Announcing his move, the lawmaker said he had decided to join the ruling party as he prepares to seek the county’s top seat.
“Today, I take a new political step by joining the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as I pursue my ambition to serve Nairobi as Governor in 2027,” he said.
Karauri was elected Kasarani MP in the 2022 General Election as an independent candidate. His move to UDA now places him in the race for the Nairobi governor’s seat under the ruling party’s ticket.
His announcement comes a week after Governor Johnson Sakaja announced his departure from UDA on November 2. Sakaja said he would seek re-election in 2027 on an ODM ticket.
Karauri enters crowded Nairobi race
Karauri will be seeking to unseat Sakaja, who is expected to defend his position, in a contest that is already attracting several political figures.
Other people who have been associated with the race include Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, Embakasi North Member of Parliament James Gakuya, and former Starehe Member of Parliament Margaret Wanjiru.
Others named in the list of possible candidates include businesswoman Agnes Kagure, journalist Tony Gachoka, Makadara Member of Parliament George Aladwa, and former Nairobi County Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria.
Before venturing into politics, Karauri had gained reputation for being associated with the betting and sports sector in Kenya. He helped found SportPesa where he held the position of chief executive officer and gained nickname The Captain.
Karauri, who is also a former commercial pilot, established his reputation through football sponsorships and support for local clubs and grassroots sporting events.
In spite of being announced as UDA’s Nairobi gubernatorial candidate, Karauri said he would honor the decision of the party following the outcome of the party’s primaries in choosing its candidate for the 2027 election.
The General Election is slated for August 10, 2027.
